#07206 Emile Vernon (1872-1919)

The composition presents a young woman in a moment of leisure, seemingly poised for a game of tennis. She is positioned centrally within the frame, seated on what appears to be a low stone wall or terrace. Her gaze is directed outward, towards the viewer, yet her expression suggests a contemplative pause rather than direct engagement. The light illuminates her face and upper body, highlighting the delicate features and rendering her skin with a soft luminosity.
The artist has rendered her hair in loose, voluminous curls, adorned with a small red ribbon that echoes the subtle floral embroidery on her dress. Her attire – a pale pink dress with lace detailing – indicates a certain social standing and adherence to contemporary fashion trends. The tennis racket rests casually in her hand, while she holds a tennis ball delicately between her fingers, as if considering its trajectory.
The background is deliberately blurred, creating depth and drawing attention to the central figure. We see other figures engaged in similar activities – playing tennis – further establishing the context of leisure and sport. The landscape itself appears idyllic, with lush greenery and a suggestion of distant hills under a cloudy sky. This backdrop contributes to an overall atmosphere of tranquility and refined enjoyment.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of femininity, leisure, and social status. The woman’s pose and expression suggest a certain self-possession and grace, characteristic of idealized portrayals of women in this period. The inclusion of tennis – a relatively new sport at the time – signals modernity and participation in recreational activities previously associated with men. The blurred background and focus on the individual imply a sense of isolation or introspection within a larger social context. It is possible to interpret the painting as an exploration of identity, leisure, and the evolving role of women in society during a period of significant social change.